Insights, hopes and challenges for the upcoming elections
South Africa, and in particular Bela-Bela and surrounds, recently witnessed a surge in political engagement during the IEC (Electoral Commission of South Africa) registration weekend which took place from Friday, 2 February to Sunday, 4 February.
These events provided an opportunity for political representatives to connect with their communities, encouraging voter registration and fostering a sense of civic duty. Die Pos spoke to political figures representing various political parties, shedding light on the diverse dynamics of South Africa’s political landscape.
Desireé van der Walt, provincial leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), shared optimism about the recent registration weekend. The significant number of registrations, both in-person and online, signaled hope for political change in South Africa. Van der Walt emphasized that the active participation showcased a nation ready for transformation.
“South Africans are ready to move forward,” she declared.
Mary Coover, a ward councilor for the ANC, acknowledged the improved turnout compared to the previous registration weekend in November 2023. However, she expressed concerns about the disinterest of the youth in checking their voter registration status, posing potential challenges for the upcoming elections. Coover’s remarks suggest a need for targeted efforts to engage the younger demographic and ensure their active participation in the democratic process.
Jee-Dee Cloete, Ward Councillor for the Freedom Front Plus (FF+), provided insights into the party’s successful registration weekend. The VF+ adopted a one-to-one engagement strategy, combining online interactions with house visits. Cloete’s enthusiasm for community engagement was evident in the approximately 240 registrations handled, focusing on welcoming newcomers to the area. The call for unity within the community echoed through Cloete’s words, emphasizing that strength lies in collective efforts.
The message was clear: individual voices, when united, have the power to shape local governance.
The reflections from representatives of the DA, ANC, and FF+ provide a versatile view of South Africa’s recent registration weekends. While optimism and hope for change prevail, challenges and concerns, particularly regarding youth engagement, call for targeted efforts. The diverse dynamics of political engagement highlight the need for community-centric approaches, passionate commitment to local governance, and a collective belief in the strength that unity makes a country stronger.
Online portals for registration are still open and voters can register online until President Cyril Ramaphosa announces the election date.
